Ajax residents now have a more reliable 9-1-1 system after the Durham Regional Police Service launched Next Generation 9-1-1 on June 25, 2026, part of a nationwide push to modernize emergency communications across Canada.
The upgrade, funded through more than $3.7 million in provincial dollars since 2022, moves emergency call handling to an internet-based network. For now, dialling 9-1-1 still works the same way using voice calls, but the new digital backbone sets the stage for future features like real-time text chats with dispatchers and more precise caller location tracking.
“Upgrading Ontario’s public safety communications will be a game changer,” said Ontario Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “Next Generation 9-1-1 gives first responders real-time, life-saving information which means a faster, more effective emergency response.”
Chief Peter Moreira, who has led the service since 2023, said the technology strengthens the ability to respond quickly while meeting evolving public needs. The project was delivered in partnership with Bell, Avaya, Netagen, and Komutel, and beats the federal deadline of March 31, 2027 set by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission.
The service handles 9-1-1 calls for all of Durham Region, including Ajax and its more than 135,000 residents. While text and photo messaging are not yet available, the upgraded network can support those tools once they are rolled out in later phases.
